On October 14, during a routine press conference led by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, a reporter inquired about China’s expectations regarding the upcoming 23rd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) heads of government, noting that Premier Li Qiang would be in attendance.
Mao responded by highlighting that for 23 years, SCO member countries have adhered to the “Shanghai Spirit,” staying attuned to the currents of the times. He emphasized that they have consistently improved friendly relations and deepened cooperation across various fields, making significant contributions to the security and stability of the Eurasian continent and promoting development and prosperity among regional nations. Amidst the rapidly evolving global landscape, Mao expressed that the international community looks forward to the SCO demonstrating greater responsibility and achieving more practical cooperation outcomes.
He mentioned that during the SCO summit in Astana in July, President Xi Jinping presented a vital initiative for building “Five Common Homes” focusing on unity, peace, prosperity, friendship, and fairness among member states. This initiative had garnered broad consensus among leaders on promoting collaboration, upholding international equity, and enhancing the operational mechanisms of the SCO, which sets clear direction for the organization’s development in the current environment. Following this, China assumed the rotating presidency of the SCO and is set to host a summit next year. Mao asserted that Premier Li Qiang’s participation in the upcoming meeting would allow for in-depth discussions with other leaders on implementing the Astana summit’s agreements and advancing practical cooperation within the SCO. He expressed confidence that the meeting would yield positive results, further supporting the security, stability, and development of the region.
Another reporter asked for China’s assessment of the current state of China-Pakistan relations in light of Li Qiang’s recent announcement of an official visit to Pakistan.
Mao reiterated that China and Pakistan are steadfast friends and all-weather strategic partners, emphasizing the resilience and strength of their relationship which has endured numerous tests. He referred to Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s successful official visit to China in June, where both nations actively implemented the important consensus reached by their leaders, showcasing a robust positive trajectory in bilateral relations.
Mao noted that this visit by Premier Li Qiang would mark his first trip to Pakistan since taking office and would also facilitate mutual visits by the two prime ministers within the year. He underscored the significance of this visit in deepening the all-weather strategic partnership between China and Pakistan.
Looking ahead, Mao expressed hopes that this visit would enhance traditional friendship, strengthen strategic communication, and promote the high-quality development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Additionally, he conveyed the intention to expand comprehensive cooperation, ensure the safety of Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions in Pakistan, and accelerate the establishment of a closer China-Pakistan community of shared destiny, ultimately working together to maintain regional peace, stability, and prosperity.
